The Mediating Role of Dark Triad Personality Traits in the Relationship Between Childhood Traumas and Obsessive Beliefs

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the relationship between childhood traumas, dark triad personality traits, and obsessive beliefs. Personal Information Form, Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, Short Dark Triad Scale, and Obsessive Beliefs Questionnaire were used to collect data in the study. A total of 480 volunteers, of which 306 were female and 174 were male, participated in the study. Pearson Correlation Analysis, independent samples t-test, and Parallel Multiple Mediator Variable analysis were used for the analysis of the obtained data. The correlation analysis results showed that childhood traumas were significantly and positively associated with both dark triad personality traits and obsessive beliefs. Male participants' psychopathic personality traits mean scores were found to be significantly higher than those of females. Mediation analysis results show that the psychopathic personality traits had a mediating effect on the relationship between the physical and emotional neglect and abuse sub-dimensions of childhood traumas and obsessive beliefs. The findings were discussed vis-à-vis the available relevant literature and suggestions were presented.